An examination of theories regarding the valuable/beautiful in our perceptual experience of both nature and works of fine art: the nature of the aesthetic, the different aesthetics which are characteristic of different cultures, societies, and individuals; the nature of art; the importance of anything being classified as art; the functions of the arts in society; the nature of artistic creation; the non-artist’s understandings of, response to, and evaluation of works of art. Note: This course fulfills Objective 5c of the University Core Curriculum.